Our Team

T. Claire Kest

CFP®, CAP®

Lead Financial Advisor, Chief Storyteller

Professional Experience

Why did you choose your profession?

I accidentally chose to work in the financial services industry. After graduating from college with an English degree, I applied to work for a lawyer who was also a syndicated writer and author. She also happened to be the owner of a boutique RIA, similar to the Hurlow Wealth Management Group. I knew very little about money management when I started, but the longer I worked there, the more I wanted to know. Also, the better investor I became at managing my own money.

My passion for financial education grew with my own curiosity. I realize now that learning to manage money is not scary or hard, but it does take effort and planning to reach my goals.

While I may have accidentally chosen to work in the industry, I have intentionally chosen to learn as much as I can and share that knowledge with as many people as possible. While I did not know that I wanted to be a Financial Advisor until later in life, I realize that my journey has prepared me well for this position.

What is your favorite thing about being part of the Hurlow team?

The leadership at Hurlow has set up a strong foundation to support and guide the team to carry out our client-centered mission. I chose Hurlow because I recognized that this firm holds itself to the highest standard of care, to provide clear guidance as a fiduciary and to ensure clients feel confident and comfortable with advice and service they receive.

I also share the same passion for continuous learning and looking forward to completing my next certification. I feel encouraged that my pursuit of knowledge is appreciated and supported.

What causes are you passionate about?

I am passionate about education. Ronald Reagan once said, “If America is to offer greater economic opportunity to her citizens, if she’s to defend our freedom, democracy, and keep the peace, then our children will need wisdom, courage, and strength — virtues beyond their reach without education.” As children we learn the basics, but education does not stop at childhood. We live in a world that is constantly changing and evolving, so we must be lifelong learners.

When someone is willing to work hard to learn something new, anything is possible. With knowledge we gain the ability to change our world for the better.

I now use my passion for education and knowledge about investing to teach personal finance through my writing and presentations to corporations and community organizations.

What do you love to do outside of work?

In the winter, I enjoy playing and designing board games. I have loved game nights since I was a little kid. My three sons, Jon-Luc, Nicholas and Liam are willing to play most of the time. They humor me.

Come spring, I can’t wait to have fun outside riding bikes, walking, jogging, playing tennis, watching baseball, and getting out on the water.

I also look for opportunities to volunteer within the community. In 2022, I joined the Bloomington Rotary Club and Civil Air Patrol and now serve in leadership roles in both organizations.

What is a fun fact about you?

In 2023, I started taking flying lessons earned my private pilot’s license.

Education and Affiliations

Educational Background

  • 2020: Boston College, Certificate in Financial Planning
  • 2014: University of Connecticut; Bachelor of Arts in English, Cum Laude
  • 2012: Norwalk Community College, Liberal Arts and Sciences; Associates Degree, Magna Cum Laude

Professional Designations

  • 2022: Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®)
  • 2021: Certified Financial Education Instructor
  • 2020: CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ® professional
  • 2018: Series 65

Professional Organizations

  • Rotary Club of Bloomington – Treasurer
  • Hoosier Hills Estate Planning Council – Board Member
  • Financial Planning Association (FPA) – Member
  • Bloomington Economic Development Corporation – Board Member
  • Civil Air Patrol – Finance Officer

Are you ready to experience the Hurlow difference? Schedule a 15 minute no-obligation call with a member of the Hurlow advisory team.